
Europe Tries To Stay Relevant at Underwhelming Defence Conference
Italy poured cold water on the suggestion it must immediately increase spending levels.

Italy poured cold water on the suggestion it must immediately increase spending levels.
Rutte warned that Russia could be ready to attack NATO countries “in five years.”
Europe’s largest economy is already trailing its 2018 troop targets, raising concerns as the country now faces pressure to significantly boost its active-duty forces.
PM Sánchez justified the multi-billion investment by saying “it’s obvious that only Europe will know how to protect Europe.”
President Zelensky remains optimistic about continued support from the West.
Despite rumours of President Trump withdrawing support from Europe, the head of NATO is confident that the alliance is ‘there to stay.’

Despite being a vocal supporter of military and financial aid to Ukraine, the Spanish PM appears unwilling to prioritise Europe’s self-defence capability.

Mark Rutte: “We have seen elements of a campaign to destabilise our societies.”

Mark Rutte echoed Trump’s call for greater funding, suggesting welfare cuts to strengthen Europe’s military readiness.

Stoltenberg prioritizes a ceasefire, saying it is unrealistic to expect Russia to give up the occupied territories soon.